A Proper Interpretation

“If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink: For thou shalt heap coals of fire upon his head, and the Lord shall reward thee.” (Proverbs 25:21-22)

Let’s start with what the proverb is not saying: if you do something nice for your enemy, he will become enraged, inflamed if you will, and thus it will serve as a God-approved retaliation.

Do we seriously think God would reward us for that?

Of course not.

Isn’t our ‘Christian kindness’ designed to draw people towards Christ?

Of course it is.

The ‘head’ being spoken of in the Proverb is a term which refers to the barely glowing, seemingly dormant embers of a fire, as in a furnace or an old locomotive, that are intended to go low, but never go out, the rationale being that a blaze can be easily stoked by just adding fuel, without having to start a fire from scratch. 

 

The ‘enemy’ in the proverb is a broad term. It simply could mean those who have done you wrong, but it could also typify the unsaved or back slidden person whose head has gone cold. The niceties of the Christian who blesses this person are likened to hot coals that will serve to restore the flame that has expired or perhaps was never there to begin with. 

This is the type of behavior the Lord rewards.

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Call Me Religious – I Really Don’t Mind

“If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there my servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.” (John 12:26)

I am a follower of Jesus Christ and I don’t mind if you call me religious. The way I see it, Jesus has provided His followers a variety of activities, if pursued, will draw the Christian closer to Him and thus deepen their relationship. Some of these activities include prayer, Bible study, corporate worship and Bible teaching, communion, baptism, holy matrimony, sharing the Christian faith, charitable and sacrificial giving, and submission to the plan and will of God. I have no problem whatsoever referring to these things collectively as the components of the (my) Christian religion.

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. (Hebrews 10:24-25)

 

I grasp that some folks have been hurt by false religions, of which there are thousands. I also understand there is an entire group of people who falsely believe that ‘doing’ the components of the Christian religion, such as going to church or reading the Bible, is what saves them. I am not one of those people and hopefully you aren’t either. You should know that Jesus does not hate the elements of the Christian religion (how could He; He gave us these building blocks), but hates that some folks errantly believe (or teach) that this religion will save them.

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

 

I recognize that the Christian religion, that is to say the components of our Christian faith, do not have the power to save anyone. Our salvation is by faith alone, believing that Jesus Christ completed all the work that was needed to be done, on the cross at Calvary. We are saved not because of these religious things we do [to deepen our relationship with Jesus], we are saved because we believe Jesus died for our sins and paid the penalty we were due. In honor, glory, and praise to our Savior Jesus Christ, we are active participants in the religious activities He has given His bride, the church. The cherished relationship with our Lord and Savior is effectuated by means of these religious practices. If we ignore them, our relationship suffers. 

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Matthew 11:29

 

I get it when some Christians proclaim, “It’s not a religion, it’s a relationship,” as they strongly desire to convey to non-believers that the components of our faith cannot save a person. However the statement is misleading because the non-believer then witnesses these same people doing religious things and are left confused.

And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer?  but ye have made it a den of thieves. Mark 11:17

 

The non-believing community would be better served if we (the church) would shun our little catchphrases, and strive to share the whole story. We might win over a religion-hater by telling him or her, “It’s not a religion,” but without a more substantial explanation, we risk losing them when they come face-to-face with our religious activities.

The church would be better served if we clung more to Christ’s commands and shared them, rather than our catchy slogans.
 

Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. 2 Timothy 4:2

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My Open Letter to Donald Trump

Dear Mr. Trump:

Two things: You have my vote and I’m not happy about it.

That last comment deserves an explanation.  I’m not going to sit here and jot down all your character flaws. You know who and what you are, and I suspect that your defense might be that what some see as failings are the very things that have gotten you as far as you have, and they have in fact brought you to this national platform where you could become the next president of the United States.

I would say that you shouldn’t discount God in this equation.

The Bible says that God causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous (Matthew 5:45). It’s the Lord who gives and takes away (Job 1:21), and He does so for all people. God blesses those who believe in Him and those who don’t, but what many people do not know is that those blessings cease for the non-believer as soon as their last breath is expelled.

What does this have to do with Donald Trump?

Honestly, Mr. Trump, I’m concerned for your salvation. If I may paraphrase a few of your remarks on Christianity, Jesus, and salvation, you said: “I have no need to ask for forgiveness; I’m a good person; I try to do good things.”

Excuse my directness, but those statements are false and they show a lack of understanding of the Christian faith. I am telling you these things in love. If your claim of not needing forgiveness is true and that a person can earn a ticket to Heaven through their own good efforts, then God had His son Jesus brutally murdered on the cross for nothing.

If your claim of not needing forgiveness is true and that a person can earn a ticket to Heaven through their own good efforts, then God had His son Jesus brutally murdered on the cross for nothing.

Here’s the issue in a nutshell, Mr. Trump: without a heartfelt understanding of your sinful nature (common to ALL men, Romans 3:23), and your need for a remedy that is found in Christ Jesus alone, you are a nominal believer; that is to say that you are a Christian in name only. The Good News is that this condition is easily corrected. The question that remains is, “Are you willing?”

You might be interested to know that Jesus did not tell His followers to go out and share the Gospel message to make converts to Christianity, but rather to make disciples (students) of Christ. It’s through discipleship that we come to know Jesus in a fuller way, whereby He will change us for the better, thus making us better equipped to serve Him. Not only will He replace our character faults, He will replace them with better things; things He can use to accomplish His good will and purposes.

Mr. Trump, I am going to vote for you because I see through all the negative issues and see a bunch of positive attributes that will help to get our nation back on its feet, but at the same time I know that Jesus Christ must be part of this equation, otherwise we are merely building a nice house upon a foundation of sand – it might look good for a while, but in time it will crumble. That’s not my opinion, that’s God’s word.

Because of your occasional foul tenor and errant theology, some of my Christian friends have abandoned you, Mr. Trump, while some higher-ranking, Christian folks have opted to bash you rather than help you. That is to their shame.  What I see in you is someone who has identified themselves with Christ Jesus and is in need of some wise, Biblical counsel. I am no theologian, Mr. Trump, nor am I a pastor. I am just a follower of Jesus trying to be obedient to His commands the best I am able and of course, with His minute-by-minute help.

Mr. Trump, if nobody else in the global, Christian church will step up to get you on the proper and narrow path, then I hereby volunteer. I will meet you anywhere, at any time, and on my dime to have just a few moments of your time.  I’m not bragging, but God has blessed me more than I deserve and I will gladly spend whatever it takes to have this most important conversation with you. I am genuinely concerned for you and for our nation and believe we need to have this critical dialog.

Sincerely,

David Wells
Oakhurst, NJ

A note to my readers:

Yes, I do understand that the likelihood of Donald Trump ever seeing this blog is incredibly slim. For that reason, I am in prayer. I am confident that God is going to do something, I just don’t know what it is. My only recourse is to jot down a few words and pray for God’s will to be done. If you’re on the same page as me (and have read this far), please share the blog and pray for Mr. Trump, the POTUS, and the leadership of this country.

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25 Answers to the Question, “What is God’s Will for Me?”

“So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” (Ephesians 5:17)

You’ve heard (and perhaps asked) the question a thousand times: “What is God’s will for me?” Well according to Ephesians 5:17 it’s a very good question to ask.

Let’s examine the 25 times the phrase the ‘Will of God’ is mentioned in the Bible and then consider the short answer that each verse provides.  I say ‘short answer’ because there is much, much more to be gleaned in going back and examining the Scripture references in their Biblical context (click on the verse to read it in context). We would also do well to remember that while the Lord has a specific plan for each of us, it’s not primarily about us.

God’s Will

It’s the will of God that you do the will of God (duh), “For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.” (Mark 3:35)

It’s the will of God that you serve, “For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell on sleep, and was laid unto his fathers” (Acts 13:36)

It’s the will of God to fuel your Christian walk, “Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.” (Romans 1:10)

It’s the will of God to know you and intercede for you, “And he that (searches) the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he (makes) intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” (Romans 8:27)

It’s the will of God to change you for the better, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2)

It’s the will of God that you draw upon His joy, “That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed.” (Romans 15:32)

It’s the will of God to send you out with the Gospel, “Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God” (1 & 2 Corinthians 1:1; Ephesians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; 2 Timothy 1:1)

It’s the will of God that you be submitted to Him and to every believer, “And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.” (2 Corinthians 8:5)

It’s the will of God to deliver you from evil, “Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father” (Galatians 1:4)

It’s the will of God that you are obedient, “Not with eye service, as men pleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart” (Ephesians 6:6)

It’s the will of God that you work enthusiastically, “Always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.” (Colossians 4:12)

It’s the will of God for you to be holy, pure, and set apart, “For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication…” (1 Thessalonians 4:3)

It’s the will of God that you demonstrate continual gratitude, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

It’s the will of God that you are faithfully confident until your great inheritance is realized, “For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.” (Hebrews 10:36)

It’s the will of God you abstain from lust, be honest, and obey the law of the land, “For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men” (1 Peter 2:15)

It’s the will of God that you could suffer for doing what is right, “For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.” (1 Peter 3:17)

It’s the will of God that you be Christ-minded, “That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.” (1 Peter 4:2)

It’s the will of God that if you suffer it is not as criminals, but as unashamed, God-glorifying Christians, “Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.” (1 Peter 4:19)

It’s the will of God that you know: “The world (passes) away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God (abides) forever.” (1 John 2:17)

I can hear some of you saying, “Yes, I know it’s God’s will that I serve Him, that I’m obedient, that I’m enthusiastic, etc., but what does the Lord specifically want me to do!”

What do you want to do?

According to Psalm 37, there’s a good chance God has already put a desire in your heart, that is, if you are trusting in Him, if you’re delighting in Him, if you’re committed to Him, and if you’re resting in Him. Now couple this God-given desire with His plan that we share Jesus with a lost and dying world, praying for direction how two realities can function as one.

Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. (Psalm 37:4)

Begin each day asking the Lord, “What would you have me do today?” and sense the Lord saying back, “What do you want to do?” When I do that, sometimes my answers are errant and the Holy Spirit is faithful to correct me. But a lot of the time my answers reflect the desire that He has put in my heart and I go and do that thing. That’s not to say that things always go as I had planned, but they do always seem to go as He has planned.

Get in the habit of doing God’s will as He has already prescribed in His word and watch Him lead you directly where He wants you to be.

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In the Darkness of Terrorism

Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep , we should live together with him. 1 Thessalonians 5:5-10

The Evil Ploy

Terrorism is a psychological tactic of the enemy, the purpose of which is to instill crippling fear in those who have a [real or imagined] personal attachment to its victims. Therefore, the terrorist, given a choice of killing ten men with a gun or savagely beheading just one with a dull knife, will opt for the latter because of its horrifying, emotional impact. Of course modern terrorism has gained greater momentum because there exists a media that will transmit these images around the globe within minutes of their occurrence; audio and video snippets awash with fear-filled analysis from an equally fearful commentator. We watch, we pause a moment to consider the future, and typically, we succumb to this evil ploy of the enemy – we are afraid.

Is there a remedy?

The terrorist knows we will pause to speculate upon the future, trusting our imaginative gaze will likely freeze at a point where his heinous acts could affect us most directly. Oh, he wants us looking forward, but only so far; he wants to keep our projections inside the box; a house of horror designed by satan himself. The enemy also knows if a Christian looks too far into the future, the fear he has will subside and eventually disappear. Therein lies our solution.

We’ve heard it said, “The next time satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future.”

To that I say, don’t waste your time; satan knows Bible scripture better than you and I – he knows perfectly well what his future holds. This time could be better used to remind ourselves what our future holds, skipping over the ‘box’ entirely and gazing full-throttle into eternity, considering the reality of a blessed infinity. Thankfully, the Bible has much to say on the matter (click on the hyperlinks as needed).

First off, we have a future and a hope, our strength will be renewed, our Lord and Savior has overcome and so shall we, and we have a promised rest and a promised inheritance prepared by God Himself! This is no secret, “We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed…The dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with (us).”

Need more of a glimpse?

Right now we are God’s children and when Jesus appears we shall be like Him. Our citizenship is most assuredly in heaven. We have been sealed with the Holy Spirit…the guarantee of our inheritance. We are fellow heirs with Christ Jesus, adopted by God, grafted into the vine, and made the very bride of Christ.

We need not fear!

Remember in Luke 8 how Jesus instructed his disciples to set out in their boat to go over to the other side of the lake? They obeyed, but a great storm came about and they immediately panicked. Jesus said to them, “Where is your faith?” Where was their faith indeed! Didn’t Jesus say they were going to cross the lake? Jesus cannot lie. When Jesus tells us that He is going to prepare a place for us, He was telling the truth – like the disciples, we will cross over — where Jesus is, we will be too!

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” (1 Peter 1:3-5)

What do we do in the meantime?

Keep doing what you’re doing (unless of course you’re doing nothing). Go to work, go to school, be a parent, be a friend, be a loving and outspoken Christian, and do it all for the glory of God, praying constantly for opportunities divine, and most importantly ‘teaching all nations (and) baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.’ Remember, in the darkness of terrorism, you may be the only light in the room.’

Our future is so bright the light of eternity can be seen on our faces, so let’s not cover it with a veil of fear.

If you enjoyed the post, please like it and share it. You can also leave a comment below and/or subscribe to this blog.

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Courtyard Christianity

So I said: “Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, And I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; For my eyes have seen the King, The Lord of hosts.” Isaiah 6:5

A Good Thing

The moment we read a title like ‘Courtyard Christianity’ we tend to think the worst, “Oh great, another dissertation on the reasons why I am a bad Christian,” but that is not the case here. Let me tell you right-up front, if you are a courtyard-Christian, it is a good thing.

However…

It is not the best thing.

Let me explain.

When I think courtyard, I think ‘Tabernacle’; that one hundred and fifty-foot, by seventy five-foot chunk of land set aside as God’s meeting place. A space that you and I might say would be too small for two million desert-roaming Jews, but God might have said, “Don’t worry, it’s big enough; not everyone will be interested.”

Bottom line (and as far as this pertains to the Christian life), if you are in the courtyard of the tabernacle, you are saved. Celebrate! But know this: you can go deeper. Going deeper doesn’t save you; remember: if you’re in the courtyard, figuratively speaking, you are saved.

Sanctuary Christians

There are two types of sanctuary Christians; both are saved, but one is better off than the other. (Please note that I am not saying one is better, but rather that one is in a more favorable position, spiritually speaking). The sanctuary of the tabernacle was the forty-five foot by fifteen foot tent that had two compartments within. The first room of the sanctuary housed the lampstand, the table of show-bread, and the golden censer. If you have left the courtyard and entered this first room of the sanctuary you are in a better place, for you have entered the realm of Christian service.

How So?

The utensils of the sanctuary are symbolic of (they picture) Christian service. A person who trims the wicks of a lampstand is concerned with the light going forth. The one who daily changes the show-bread is interested in feeding the flock. And finally, the one who tends the incense is steeped in intercessory prayer, offering petitions, pleas, and praises as a sweet-smelling fragrance to the Father.

But deeper still are the…

Mercy Seat Christians

Entering into the Holy of Holies is to sit at the feet of Jesus. The difference between this best place and the place of service is revealed in the story of Martha and Mary. We know from that account, Mary chose the best seat in the house; the mercy seat. This inner sanctum is the greatest place to be for it is here we are closest to Jesus. And what makes the space so uniquely special is it is a place of refinement and restoration. The veil has been torn, so we should take advantage of the opportunity!

Consider the Ark

The Ark of the Covenant held three things: manna, Aaron’s rod, and the Law; three things that are symbolic of man’s fallen condition. Covering the box (and more importantly these three items) was the mercy seat, symbolic of Christ’s mercy and the covering of our sins. It is in His Holy presence He can do what He desires to do. At this point, we are free to roam and function within the tabernacle!

Conclusion:

Simply put, in the tabernacle, all are saved, but perhaps not all are fulfilled. There is always more to be had if the believer is willing; there is always a deeper experience.

For You do not desire sacrifice, or else I would give it; You do not delight in burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart–These, O God, You will not despise. Psalm 51:16-17

These articles may or may not be related:

• The Mercy Seat (cracked-pot.com)
• What is the Ark of the Covenant? (altruistico.wordpress.com)
• “The Divine Purpose For The Temple” (zionsgate.wordpress.com)
• Beyond the Veil (thelifechurchofdesplaines.wordpress.com)
• What Was in the Ark of the Covenant? (blogforthelordjesuschristianleaders.wordpress.com)
• God Is Already Satisfied When our souls (jandvservices.wordpress.com)
• Communion with God – Exodus (gsnow96.wordpress.com)
• Pakistan church bomb: Christians mourn 85 killed in Peshawar suicide attack (theguardian.com)
• Hoover students gather for See You at the Pole prayer and worship times (videos, photos) (al.com)
• Leviticus Chapter 16 (maryrubow.wordpress.com)

If you enjoyed the post, please let me know: like it, share it, subscribe to it, or leave a comment (I read and respond to every remark). God bless you.

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Who Are The Children of God?

The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs–heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together. Romans 8:16-17

Are You a Child of God?

Sadly, the term ‘child of God,’ (or children of God), is far too often misappropriated. While it is true we are all of His making, we are not all His children. God’s word is explicit: all people are God’s creation (‘For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth…All things were created through Him and for Him.’), but only those who are born again are children of God. That’s not to say God doesn’t love everybody. John 3:16 reminds us that God loves everyone and desires that all become His children. But know this: the ‘child of God’ designation is reserved for a very unique group of people.

Some will disagree.

To them I lovingly say that this isn’t my opinion; it’s the Bible, so we should examine what God has to say on the matter.

But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name: who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. John 1:12-13

This passage is pretty cut and dry: only born again believers have the right to be called children of God and subsequently are joint heirs with Christ Jesus. In fact it was Jesus who said,

“Truly I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ John 3:5-7

Born Again?

The phrase ‘born again’ literally means ‘born from above,’ signifying that it is something we cannot do ourselves; it’s 100% Divine. Our re-birth is in reality an act of God that we receive by faith; believing that God’s word (His Bible) is true and that God sent Jesus (our Lord and Savior) to die for our sins. Therefore (and because God has already declared it), we believe we are new creations in Christ, that Jesus did the work that we were unable to, and that it was all according to His Grace and His mercy. A born-again person is a saved person, and a saved person is a child of God.

For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

Chastened?

If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons (Hebrews 12:7a)

This verse reminds us that children of God (both sons and daughters) are willingly submitted to their Father; it is a choice freely made. But don’t let the word ‘chasten’ frighten you away. While it’s true that chasten does mean to correct by punishment, that’s only part of the equation. The word used here [in the Greek] is ‘paideiva,’ and it covers the entire scope of training and education, relating to holy cultivation of both mind and morals, employing direct commands, admonitions, reproof, and yes, occasionally punishment for the purpose of correcting mistakes and curbing passions.  In this regard children of God understand that whatever God does to us, is a benefit for us.

“If you are without chastening, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate and not sons.Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but He for our profit, that we may be partakers of His holiness. Hebrews 12:8-10

God’s Words, Not Mine

But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. Hebrews 1:8 

Bastard is not a term I would have used, as it seems a bit unkind, but God uses it to drive home the point. Plainly said, if you’re not a born again Christian, you are illegitimate and cannot be considered His son or daughter, and therefore, you have no Heavenly inheritance. I’m not bringing it up in order to mock or belittle you, but rather to offer you a change and invite you into the family of God. As His child, I have His permission to do that. All that is required of you is that you believe (you don’t have to understand).

Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

Do you want to know more about coming into God’s family and being saved? Then please click on this link.

These articles may or may not be related:

• “The Adoption” (iamnotashamedofthegospelofchrist.com)
• Romans 8-10 (whatshotn.wordpress.com)
• God’s Purpose (essentialthingdevotions.com)
• Discipleship is not an offer we make to Christ (aneededword.wordpress.com)
• Authority to Submission (clarksvilleonline.com)
• True Christian Integrity (adisaadeministries.wordpress.com)
• A Believer’s Inheritance (Introduction) (oldpathstn.wordpress.com)
• Kingdom Heirs (herbjordan.wordpress.com)
• Spiritual Identity (inspirationalchristiansfortoday.com)
• Do things without murmuring (pbsministries.wordpress.com)

If you enjoyed the post please like it, share it, subscribe to the blog, or leave a comment. I read and respond to every comment.

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You Only Think You Need a Vacation

Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it. For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it. For we who have believed do enter that rest, as He has said: “So I swore in My wrath, ‘They shall not enter My rest,’ “although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. For He has spoken in a certain place of the seventh day in this way: “And God rested on the seventh day from all His works”; and again in this place: “They shall not enter My rest.” Since therefore it remains that some must enter it, and those to whom it was first preached did not enter because of disobedience, again He designates a certain day, saying in David, “Today,” after such a long time, as it has been said: “Today, if you will hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts.” For if Joshua had given them rest, then He would not afterward have spoken of another day. There remains therefore a rest for the people of God. For he who has entered His rest has himself also ceased from his works as God did from His. Let us therefore be diligent to enter that rest, lest anyone fall according to the same example of disobedience. (Hebrew 4:1-11)

Let’s Rest

The previous chapter (Hebrews 3) taught us (reminded us) about Moses and the ‘generation of unbelief’ that could not enter into the Promised Land (Canaan). We learned that the thing that kept them out of the promised location was their disbelief; they did not believe that God would want to bless them and that He would follow through on His promises. Their actions bore witness to that truth.

So we see that they (Israel) could not enter in because of unbelief. Hebrews 3:19

Using the Promised Land episode as an example, Hebrews 4 begins by telling us we should fear not entering into our promised rest.  The lesson is simply to believe what God has said by faith, and to not waiver in it. The Good News is of no worth to a person if there is no faith.  Nothing has changed in this regard. Ancient Israel was taught salvation in God alone just as we are today.  If we do not enter in and accept the Spirit-filled life, by faith, then there obviously is no benefit.

We who have believed do enter that rest!

Hebrews 4 is establishing that our rest is in Jesus Christ, despite the fact that the Jews would say that they have a rest; a one-day in seven rest, called the Sabbath Day.

Thus the heavens and the earth, and all the host of them, were finished. And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made. Genesis 2:1-3

But the writer of Hebrews is referring to another rest; a future rest, that is better and God sent.  The Sabbath rest established by God in Genesis is merely a picture of the full rest we are to have in Christ; a spirit-filled life we may associate with entering into the Promised Land, being mindful that the Promised Land is not the promised rest.  Joshua took Israel into the Promised Land, but if that rest was sufficient there would be no talk of another day to come, of course pointing to Jesus Christ.  Ultimately, it’s not the Promised Land rest or the Sabbath Day rest we’re promised, they just pictures of the rest to come that commences on the day we first believe and receive Jesus as Lord and Savior.

 “Do not harden your hearts, as in the rebellion, As in the day of trial in the wilderness, When your fathers tested Me; They tried Me, though they saw My work.  For forty years I was grieved with that generation, And said, ‘It is a people who go astray in their hearts, And they do not know My ways.’ So I swore in My wrath, ‘They shall not enter My rest.’ ” Psalm 95:8-11

Regarding our rest, we see that Psalm 95 (cited by the writer of Hebrews), demonstrates that God is speaking of a yet-future event.

A Better Rest

I like the way Jon Courson said it (paraphrased here): the rest being spoken of [in Hebrews 4] is not a vacation (a Sabbath Day of rest), nor is it a location (as was the Promised Land), but rather it is a relation with Jesus Christ. For the Christian, the Christ-rest is finally understanding and accepting that there is no work to be done in regard to our salvation—the work has been done and we can rest in His work by faith.

So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” John 19:30

It’s worth repeating: the rest that people are truly craving (and God wants to provide) is not a vacation (Sabbath) or a location (Canaan), but a relation in Christ that’s everlasting. Let us not be fooled into believing that a respite or a region (alone) will bring you rest. True rest, a rewarding rest, a blessing and sustaining rest, and most importantly, a saving rest, is found only in Christ Jesus. Locations and vacations are temporary solutions at best, if Jesus is not included.

Don’t be robbed of the blessing—there is no profit, nor is there any rest in the Gospel where there is no faith.

Do Want to Know Jesus?

The blog posted prior to this one might assist you.

These articles may or may not be related:

• Hebrews: Our humble, loving High Priest (blessedbeyondmeasure3.wordpress.com)
• Key to Gods divine rest (rockchristiancenter.com)
• Why Did the Christian Cross the Road (compassiondave.wordpress.com)
• Lord of the Sabbath (lucnia.wordpress.com)
• Finding Biblical Rest (calledoutblog.wordpress.com)
• Rosh Hashanah 2013 greeting: “we may receive mercy and find grace in our time of need!” (kzlam36.wordpress.com)
• Hebrews 4. Jesus Christ the Great High Priest. Be sure to enter the promised rest. (bummyla.wordpress.com)
• Knowing Jesus as the Lord (expressionsbyacg.wordpress.com)
• Committing Everything Into His Hands! (1safeharborisjesus.wordpress.com)
• Enter To Rest (girlfriendscoffeehour.com)

I pray you were blessed by today’s blog. If you were, please like it, share it, subscribe to it, or leave a comment. I read and respond to every comment I receive. 

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These Terminal Times

“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come.” 2 Timothy 3:1

Jesus is Coming Soon

Do you believe that? The Apostle Paul did, and he lived his entire Christian life as if Jesus would be coming to get him at any moment. As a result his attitude of faith served to make him spiritually healthier. But please don’t ever say:

“Paul was wrong, Jesus never returned for him.”

First of all, that’s just not true. But regardless, Paul would tell you that his actions were right, despite the fact his rapturial timing was askew (Paul’s harpazo was of a personal nature and likely occurred when he purportedly lost his head). Let us be mindful of Christ‘s own words, “That day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.”

Back to Paul’s attitude: consider 1 John 3:2-3

“Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.”

In case you missed it, Paul is proclaiming that whoever has this hope becomes purer and thus more like Jesus. I think it was Billy Graham, when asked what if God is not real, responded, “Then I will have lived a better life.”

Paul would have likely agreed. Not only is Jesus Christ the real-deal, but in our waiting for His return we are being made better, not for our glory, but for His!

“For this is the will of God, your sanctification” 1 Thessalonians 4:3a

Want to know God’s will for your life? Well there it is!

The Contrasting Christian

What is the net result when Christians do not live as if Christ’s return was imminent? Jesus tells us Himself in Matthew 24:48-51

“But if that evil servant says in his heart, ’My master is delaying his coming, ’ and begins to beat his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunkards, the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him and at an hour that he is not aware of, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

Clearly, if our behavior does not reflect an attitude of Christ’s return being near, than it’s likely emulating the worldly conduct that surrounds us. In other words, if we’re not surrendered to the sanctification process, that is the setting apart of ourselves for all things Spiritual and submitted to God for the changes He desires to see in us, than we’re behaving as the rest of the world behaves. This person must question whether or not he or she is truly saved. Keep in mind that merely going to church doesn’t make you a Christian anymore than going to McDonald’s makes you a hamburger.

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:1-2

I implore you as well.

Jesus is coming soon and you do not want to delay. If you are not a Christian, you must rectify that immediately (here’s how). If you are a nominal Christian, you need to start acting like a normal Christian. Repent or be revived! Now is the time. We are closer to Christ’s return than we have ever been before and if you should die before Christ returns for all of us, then you will be a witness to a private audience with the King of Kings. At that time if you do not know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, He will not receive you into His Kingdom — that’s just the way it is.

I beg you, stop rejecting the only Savior.

 “And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; men’s hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of heaven will be shaken. Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.” Luke 21:25-27

These articles/blogs may or may not be related:

• Is being a Christian about keeping all the rules? (pastorchucks.wordpress.com)
• Living for the Reign of Jesus (sethsoasis.wordpress.com)
• So what colour was Jesus? (bloggingtheology.wordpress.com)
• Finding The Right Partner For The Job (witnessrunner.wordpress.com)
• Salvation 101 (meanlittleboy2.wordpress.com)
• Finding Joy Amidst Suffering (matgilbert.wordpress.com)
• Processing Death Through a Biblical Lens With Your Children (apexparents.com)
• If Jesus Is Lord, Can Unbelievers Own Property? (matthewtuininga.wordpress.com)
• And He was Amazed! (slave2christ.wordpress.com)
• A Christian is one who follows Christ (expressconcerns.wordpress.com)

I pray you were somehow blessed by the post. If you were, please like it, share, subscribe to it, and please leave a comment. I read and respond to every comment I receive. Have a blessed day in the Lord Jesus.

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Prosecho, You Say!

This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters the Presence behind the veil, where the forerunner has entered for us, even Jesus, having become High Priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. Hebrews 6:19-20

Jesus: The Anchor of the Soul

According to observations by Michael Card in his album, Soul Anchor: “The anchor became a key Christian symbol during the period of Roman persecution. The first century symbol wasn’t the cross; it was the anchor. If I’m a first century Christian and I’m hiding in the catacombs and three of my best friends have just been thrown to the lions or burned at the stake, or crucified and set ablaze as torches at one of [Emperor] Nero’s garden parties, the symbol that most encourages me in my faith is the anchor. When I see it, I’m reminded that Jesus is my anchor.”

So where did the idea of an anchor originate? Aside from Paul’s shipwreck account in Acts 27 at Malta, we only see the word ‘anchor’ used one other time: in Hebrews 6:19. But I submit to you that the writer of Hebrews used the terminology earlier in the book, back in chapter two.

Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away. Hebrews 2:1

At first glance these do not seem like nautical terms, but diving into the lexicon will give us some insight. Let’s look at the word ‘heed.’ That word in the Greek language is ‘prosecho.’  It has various meanings. We’re most familiar with the idea of  turning our minds towards a person or thing, or giving our attention to something or someone, but in the nautical sense it also means to ‘hold or cling to,’ or to ‘bring a ship to land,’ as to secure or anchor it. When we add the word earnestly [to heed], as the writer of Hebrews did, it emphasizes the vital importance of anchoring not in a slipshod or negligent manner, but in such a way that will ensure our vessel will not slip or drift away.

Are you anchored earnestly?

Do not forget that Jesus is the Rock, our sure anchor. He is the Word by which we stand secure. Take earnest heed in Him, lest you drift away.

“There is none holy like the Lord; there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God.” 1 Samuel 2:2

Soul Anchor (By Michael Card)

Though the wind is ragin all around
And even though the waves may rise

There’s a place of stillness in the storm
And you can find it if you will believe

It’s a soul anchor, Hold on to the hope
It is a soul anchor, Just hold on to your courage
Before we call, He answers us with hope

We are so sure of what we’re waiting for
And certain of the things we do not see
For we are told by the One who cannot lie
And in this hope is our security

It’s a soul anchor, Hold on to the hope
It is a soul anchor, Just hold on to your courage
Before we call, He answers us with hope

So hold fast, draw near / So hold fast, draw near
It’s a soul anchor
Hold onto the hope / It’s a soul anchor
Just hold on to your courage / Before we call He answers us
Before we call He answers us

The articles may or may not be related:

• The Anchor (guineapigrunt.wordpress.com)
• Importance of an Anchor (hopebeheranchor.wordpress.com)
• Is Your Soul Anchored? (divinepc.wordpress.com)
• Hope (lyricspire.com)
• Anchored in Jesus (spiritministries.wordpress.com)
• Throwback Thursday: On Hope (adoptiongraceandlife.wordpress.com)
• You Hold My Awe (shellykropp.wordpress.com)
• An Anchor for my Soul (becauseheartmatters.wordpress.com)
• Sunday Class Notes: August 4 (lifereference.wordpress.com)
• When Life Hurts Most (anarosegapasin.wordpress.com)

I pray the blog blessed you in some manner. Please ‘like’ it if it did, or share it, subscribe to it, or leave a comment below. I read every comment and reply to most!

 

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